The award was presented during SuperZoo’s Doobie Brothers concert at the House of Blues in Las Vegas.

“Over the past 42 years, Tony de Vos has selflessly led and mentored those in the pet business on natural pet products, and ecological and sustainable business practices.” said Michael Twain, vice chairman of WPA. “He worked tirelessly in the formation of the American Family Pet Expo, the Sustainability Coalition, and acted as a wonderful past chairman of WPA. His work speaks for itself; it was an easy choice.”

The WPA’s Lifetime Achievement Award, also known as the Matsui award, is meant to honor lifetime contributions in the pet industry. It is awarded only when the WPA feels someone is worthy of the distinction. The Matsui Award has been presented 31 times since its inception in 1969.

“It’s an honor to receive such a prestigious award, especially from my fellow WPA members,” said de Vos. “I’ve always felt it was important to stay active in the industry, especially with organizations like the World Pet Association that do so much to bring the pet world together through events and information.”